Rock Scramble Trail

The Rock Scramble Trail is the most technically demanding hike at Quartz Mountain State Park, a rugged scramble over exposed Precambrian granite boulders to a high promontory overlooking Lake Altus-Lugert and the surrounding plains of southwestern Oklahoma. The route follows no formal maintained trail, instead requiring hikers to navigate a series of boulder fields and rocky slopes using hands and feet on the rough granite surface. The granite is typically excellent for climbing, providing positive friction even when dry, but the exposed summit area can be dangerously hot in summer and requires adequate sun protection and water. From the summit boulders, the lake extends in both directions below and the flat Oklahoma horizon stretches unobstructed to all cardinal points, offering a sense of elevated perspective unique in this part of the southern Great Plains. The ancient granite of the Wichita Mountains formation, some of the oldest exposed rock in the continental United States, displays beautiful mineral crystalline structure visible in the large boulder outcrops along the route. This scramble route is best suited to experienced hikers comfortable with unrefined off-trail terrain and some exposure to modest heights above the surrounding landscape.